I'm surprised I never noticed any links to Scott Alexander pieces here... is that because he is unknown, or does he not appeal to the crowd here? Suddenly remembered him as I was thinking who else I used to read and enjoy a lot, other than Matt Levine.
And it’s good for your interlocutor to realize that they’re not just speaking into a void, that you’re capable of admitting fault, and that it’s a real discussion with potential win criteria instead of them getting bombarded again and again until they go away.
Most people hold most of their beliefs for more than one reason (is this mysterious?). It’s fine to admit that one of your arguments was wrong, while continuing to believe the same thing as before. But I think for the sake of other people’s patience and your own ability to eventually change your mind, you should take note and increment exactly how many of your arguments are getting disproven.
(it's a short article, so best is to read the link directly rather than my quotes as you'll be missing some context)
I do like that here on SN, most interactions are quite respectful. I disagree with the views of many here, but I rarely feel attacked for having them. Only a few times, maybe, and then, I simply muted the people who are enable to converse respectfully.